Abstract: An optical apparatus includes a lens and a lens hood having a tunnel for directing light to the lens. Further, the tunnel includes a first end engaging the lens and a second end spaced from the lens.

Abstract: An optical apparatus including a housing having a window, the housing configured to accommodate a laser emitting device configured to emit laser pulses to an outside of the optical apparatus through the window; a fan configured to generate an airflow; and a conditioning element having a plurality of fins defining a first portion configured to receive the airflow from the fan, the contoured fins having a second portion curved relative to the first portion.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided herein for improved short range object detection in LiDAR systems. The associated systems may include a first portion and a second portion configured to rotate relative to one another. The system may also include a first magnet located on the second portion and arranged with a north pole of the first magnet facing a first direction. The system may also include a second magnet located on the second portion and arranged with a south pole of the second magnet facing the first direction. The system may also include a first sensor located on the first portion, wherein the first sensor is further configured to measure a first magnetic field of the first magnet and a second magnetic field of the second magnet as the first portion and second portion rotate relative to one another.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for providing a bi-directional data communication link within a LIDAR assembly that has a stationary portion attached to an autonomous vehicle and a second portion rotatably connected to the stationary portion. The second portion may include one or more emitting/receiving devices (e.g., lasers) for detecting objects surrounding the autonomous vehicle. A first and second differential capacitive elements may rotatably operate to download data from the second portion to the stationary portion. A third and fourth differential capacitive element may rotatably operate to upload data from the stationary portion to the second portion.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for providing a bi-directional data communication link within a LIDAR assembly that has a stationary portion attached to an autonomous vehicle and a second portion rotatably connected to the stationary portion. The second portion may include one or more emitting/receiving devices (e.g., lasers) for detecting objects surrounding the autonomous vehicle. A first printed circuit board including a first set of trace antennas. A second printed circuit board including a second set of trace antennas. The first printed circuit board may be configured to rotate 360-degrees in relation to the second printed circuit board so that the first set of trace antennas and the second set of trace antennas align to provide the bi-directional data link.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided herein for improved short range object detection in LiDAR systems. The associated systems may include a first portion and a second portion configured to rotate relative to one another. The system may also include a first magnet located on the second portion and arranged with a north pole of the first magnet facing a first direction. The system may also include a second magnet located on the second portion and arranged with a south pole of the second magnet facing the first direction.